These BBQ Chicken Calzones are the perfect blend of cheesy goodness and smoky BBQ flavors, all wrapped up in a golden, crispy dough. They are a fun and flavorful twist on traditional pizza, making them the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.
The combination of tender chicken, tangy BBQ sauce, and gooey cheese creates a mouthwatering filling, while the crispy calzone exterior ensures each bite is perfectly satisfying. You can customize these calzones by adding your favorite vegetables or extra cheese to suit your taste. They’re great for a family dinner, game night, or a casual meal with friends.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
-
2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
-
1/2 cup BBQ sauce
-
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
-
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
-
1 tablespoon olive oil
-
1 package pizza dough (store-bought or homemade)
-
1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
-
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
-
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
-
Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface to form 4 individual circles, about 6 inches in diameter.
-
In a medium bowl, toss together the shredded chicken, BBQ sauce, mozzarella cheese, cheddar cheese, and red onion.
-
Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center of each dough circle.
-
Fold the dough over to form a half-moon shape, and pinch the edges to seal tightly.
-
Brush the tops of the calzones with olive oil, and bake them for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Top with fresh cilantro before serving.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 35 minutes Kcal: 450 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
The Flavor Profile of BBQ Chicken Calzones
The flavor profile of BBQ Chicken Calzones is a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory. The star of the filling is the BBQ sauce, which gives the chicken a rich, smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness. The tender chicken soaks up the sauce, creating a juicy filling that pairs beautifully with the soft and chewy calzone dough. As the calzone bakes, the cheese—usually a blend of mozzarella and cheddar—melts into the filling, creating a gooey, savory layer that makes each bite indulgent. The dough itself adds a slightly crispy texture on the outside, providing a wonderful contrast to the creamy filling. Whether you’re using store-bought dough or making it from scratch, the dough’s slight chewiness is key to holding everything together and ensuring a satisfying bite.
The Perfect Dough for Your Calzone
The dough is just as important as the filling when it comes to making BBQ Chicken Calzones. While you can certainly purchase pre-made pizza dough, making it at home offers the advantage of customization. Homemade dough provides a fresher, more flavorful base that can be tailored to your tastes. It’s important to use a dough that has the right balance of elasticity and tenderness, which will ensure your calzones bake up with a perfectly golden crust that’s both crispy and soft. If you’re pressed for time, pre-made dough is a convenient option and will still give you a delicious calzone. Just be sure to roll it out thinly to allow the filling to shine.
The Versatility of BBQ Chicken Calzones
One of the most appealing aspects of BBQ Chicken Calzones is their versatility. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. The basic concept of the BBQ chicken filling can be adapted to include a variety of ingredients, allowing you to make these calzones your own.
For example, if you’re looking to add some extra vegetables, consider adding sautéed bell peppers, onions, or even spinach to the filling. These additions will not only enhance the flavor but also boost the nutritional value of your calzones. You could also try adding a bit of heat by tossing in some sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. If you prefer a smokier flavor, a few drops of liquid smoke or smoked paprika can be added to the BBQ sauce to deepen the flavor.
For those with dietary restrictions, BBQ Chicken Calzones can be easily adapted. You can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free pizza dough, or even make a low-carb version with a cauliflower crust. For a dairy-free option, simply swap out the cheese for a dairy-free alternative. These calzones are also an excellent option for meal prepping, as they can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.
A Meal for All Occasions
BBQ Chicken Calzones are a fantastic meal for all kinds of occasions. Whether you’re feeding a family, hosting a dinner party, or looking for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner, these calzones can fit the bill. They’re easy to make and can be customized to suit a variety of tastes and preferences. Kids love them, and they’re a fun way to get everyone involved in the kitchen—let the kids help with assembling the calzones for a family-friendly cooking activity.
For a casual get-together or party, BBQ Chicken Calzones make a great finger food. Their portable nature makes them perfect for sharing with friends, and you can serve them with a variety of dipping sauces on the side, such as ranch, blue cheese, or even extra BBQ sauce for an extra burst of flavor. These calzones are also great for game day, as they’re filling and easy to eat while watching the big game.
Healthier Options for BBQ Chicken Calzones
While BBQ Chicken Calzones are indulgent, they can also be made healthier without sacrificing flavor. Opt for lean chicken breast instead of darker cuts of chicken for a lower-fat filling. You can also use part-skim cheese to reduce the fat content, or try adding more veggies to the filling for extra nutrients and fiber. If you’re looking for a more balanced meal, serve the calzones with a side salad or some roasted vegetables to add color and additional vitamins.
For a lighter version, you could also reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a whole-wheat dough to increase the fiber content. These small changes can help make BBQ Chicken Calzones a more health-conscious choice while still delivering on taste and satisfaction.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Calzones
Once your BBQ Chicken Calzones are done baking, it’s time to serve them up! Let the calzones cool for a few minutes before cutting into them, as the filling will be incredibly hot. Serve them with a side of your favorite dipping sauces—whether that’s extra BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, or even a spicy Sriracha mayo. A simple green salad can be a great side dish to complement the rich and cheesy calzones, offering a refreshing contrast to the flavors.
BBQ Chicken Calzones are a filling meal on their own, but they can also be paired with other dishes for a more extensive spread. For a complete meal, serve with garlic bread or roasted vegetables to round out the flavors. These calzones can also be enjoyed the next day as leftovers, making them a convenient option for meal prepping or preparing ahead of time.
Conclusion
BBQ Chicken Calzones are an irresistible comfort food that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. With their smoky BBQ flavor, gooey cheese, and tender chicken wrapped in a soft, golden dough, they are a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner, a party, or just a fun night in, BBQ Chicken Calzones are a versatile dish that is sure to satisfy. With endless customization options and the ability to adapt to various dietary preferences, they’re a meal that everyone can enjoy. So, next time you’re craving a hearty, flavorful dish, consider making BBQ Chicken Calzones—they’re sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen!